The Australian Government has formally approved up to $2.04 million to fund a series of safety improvements to three Bass Highway intersections at Latrobe.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the upgrades would target the Moriarty Road roundabout, the intersection of Gilbert Street and Bass Highway, and the intersection of the Bass Highway with York Street and the Wattle Hill service station accesses.

“A 2016 safety review recommended improvements to the Moriarty Road roundabout to make it safer for drivers, so the funding we are delivering will pay for upgrades to signage and pedestrian accessibility,” Mr Chester said.

“The Gilbert Street intersection will also receive upgrades to improve sight lines and safety for motorists, with a concept design for the improvements already completed. Finally, right-turn lanes will be installed at the York Street intersection, making access to both York Street and the Wattle Hill service station far safer.”

“The Bass Highway has a very high freight volume and is very important to the industries in the State's North-West, and this funding will be keenly welcomed by the local community,” Mr Hidding said.

“The Australian and Tasmanian Liberal Governments will continue working cooperatively to improve safety on our roads, and this is just the latest example of two majority Governments working together to the benefit of all road users.”

Senator for Tasmania Jonathon Duniam said construction on the upgrades was due to be completed in 2018.

“This is great news for drivers. We are focused on making our roads safer for all traffic, and every dollar we invest in safety upgrades is an investment in lives,” Senator Duniam said.

The Australian Government has committed up to $2.04 million toward the $2.55 million project in partnership with the Tasmanian Government.